Alexandra Wendt
Contributing Writer
This Saturday, the Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats return to Wooster. Founded by Lien Chi Chang in 1967 in the province of Cangzhou, Hebei, they represent a tradition that has been ongoing for more than 25 centuries. Recognized as the premiere Chinese acrobatic company in the United States, the Golden Dragon Acrobats have toured all 50 states and more than 65 countries. In 2005, they performed on Broadway, and they have won two New York Drama Desk Awards. They performed at The College of Wooster in the fall of 2010, and were so well-received that the College asked them to return. Lara Sinangil ’15, who serves as W.A.C.’s Cultural Events Director, says that she recommends that “everyone should come see the Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats -— not only will people be able to experience a top quality performance, but they will also be able to learn more about one of China’s oldest traditions.”
The Golden Dragon Acrobats give over 200 performances each year at 100 to 200 venues across the United States. They are also the only Chinese acrobatic company to tour year round in the United States. Along with dazzling viewers with flawless skill and lithe, fluid movements that make the most complicated and difficult routines appear effortless, the Golden Dragon Acrobats also spend more than one-third of their tour participating with community and youth outreach programs.
Among other awards, the Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats are a seven-time recipient of the National Association of Campus Activities Entertainer of the Year Award and the Campus Activities Today’s Performer of the Year Award. They have also performed for President Clinton.
The Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats will perform at Wooster this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in McGaw Chapel.